This afternoon, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library in Appomattox held a solar eclipse watch party at Abbitt Park on Main Street from 1 to 4 p.m. Dozens of people showed up to catch a glimpse of the rare cosmic event through safety glasses.

The library provided the glasses along with moon pies and water. Children enjoyed the afternoon playing with bubble toys, hula hoops, a photo booth, and more.

Katharine Bloodworth, interim director of the library, said that around 100 people showed up earlier to get glasses and left to watch the solar eclipse elsewhere.

Two rangers from James River State Park assisted with the event. Gabi O'Sullivan, park interpreter, explained the phenomenon of eclipses to attendees at her booth. Martin Liebschner, chief ranger, showed attendees how to make solar eclipse viewing devices with cardboard boxes.

The solar eclipse began at 1:58 p.m. and peaked at 3:15 p.m. at about 80% coverage. However, cloudy skies obscured viewing for a portion of the event.

Find out more in the upcoming issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Pick up a copy or subscribe at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to view the full article in the e-edition version.